Dear Patients,

The safety and protection of patients, staff, physicians and community is a top priority for Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Centers. We are closely monitoring developments as the coronavirus situation unfolds, and we are following the recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH).

How is COVID-19 transmitted/spread?

• Through respiratory droplets when coughing and sneezing
• Close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands
• Touching an object or surface with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose or eyes before washing your hands

What are the symptoms of coronavirus?

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Moderate upper-respiratory tract illnesses, like the common cold
• Can sometimes cause lower-respiratory tract illnesses, such as pneumonia or bronchitis

If you have symptoms and have traveled to a high-risk area (China, Iran, Italy, South Korea or Japan), we ask that you call your doctor’s office or the local health department before visiting a healthcare facility.

You can help reduce your own risk by following basic flu-prevention practices:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Avoid touching your nose, eyes and mouth if your hands have not been washed.
• Clean surfaces frequently.
• Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.
• CDC recommend trying to maintain a distance of 6 feet from others whenever possible
• Please do not bring more than one person with you to the appointment to accompany you.  Only one person will be allowed in the exam room at a time.

Please know we are taking every precaution to ensure your wellbeing during your visit.  We are still open for any health treatments. If you are feeling unwell, we recommend contacting your Primary Care physician and canceling your appointment with us until which time your symptoms resolve. Your primary care physician will then be best able to address your symptoms and concerns. When visiting any of our locations, please be sure to wash your hands frequently and use hand sanitizer (if available)—to keep yourself and all our visitors safe.

Please remember that if you are feeling any of the above symptoms it is best for you to notify us and reschedule your appointment until your primary care physician has cleared you to be around others safely.

This is a time for concern, but not a time for panic. Thank you for entrusting Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Centers with your care. We are proud to serve you and look forward to continuing to do so. 

Should you have specific questions about COVID-19, we recommend visiting the Illinois Department of Public Health’s website at dph.illinois.gov or calling their hotline at 800.889.3931 or Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at www.CDC.gov/COVID19.

Thank you